Hair and nails, seemingly simple structures, offer an overlay of our overall health and wellness. The hair grows from follicles in your skin and offer protection, mainly to your scalp, while the nails protect your fingertips from any external injury. Their disorders are not just cosmetic ones, but can be indicators of many underlying medical conditions, nutritional deficiencies, and the impact of environmental factors. As we age, our hair and nails become weak, and their problems increase, making it essential to pay close attention to common hair and nail disorders in order to maintain overall health.
Common Hair Problems:
Hair problems commonly arise in your scalp hair, and are generally the indicators of any underlying disease or weakening health. The most common hair problems are as follows,
- Alopecia Areata: One of the most common hair problems in both men and women is hair loss, with Alopecia Areata being the autoimmune type, causing patchy hair loss. The exact mechanism is unknown, but factors like genetics, stress, and underlying diseases play a part. This condition can often be psychologically distressing for the patient, but can be treated with corticosteroids. [1]
- Androgenetic Alopecia: Commonly referred to as male or female pattern baldness, androgenetic alopecia affects millions of people around the world and has a tremendous impact on self-esteem. This has a hereditary pattern and causes gradual hair thinning and loss on the scalp. [2]
- Telogen Effluvium: It is a kind of hair loss that happens when many hair follicles enter the resting phase (telogen) early, which can be caused by stress, hormonal changes, or drugs. Fortunately, it is frequently reversible, with hair regrowth following the removal of the stressor. [3]
- Traction Alopecia: This is somewhat uncommon, and caused by extensive pulling and traction of the hair, such as from tight hairstyles, or in behavioural issues (trichotillomania). [4]
- Dandruff & Seborrheic Dermatitis: Dandruff is a common scalp condition causing flaky skin and itching, and may be caused by overgrowth of a yeast. Seborrheic dermatitis, on the other hand is more sever, and affects oily areas of the body including scalp, and can cause itching, redness, and scaling. [5]
Common Nail Disorders
- Onychomycosis (Fungal Nail Infections): This is a fungal infection of the nails, that can infect nails, leading to discoloration, thickening, crumbling, and brittleness. This is more prevalent in older adults, and require antifungals and good hygiene for treatment. [6]
- Psoriasis: Nail psoriasis is an autoimmune disease that can result in pitting, irregular growth, and discolouration. Nail psoriasis is often painful, and it can cause the nail to separate from its bed. [7]
- Onycholysis: The nail detaches from the nail bed owing to damage, infection, or extreme stress. It could also be a reaction to something like nail hardeners or adhesive. [8]
- Paronychia is a bacterial or fungal infection that causes swollen and painful skin around the nail, typically caused by excessive moisture or trauma. This can also cause green or yellowish discoloration and foul smell in nails. [9]
Risk Factors and Prevention:
- Hereditary Factors (Contribute significantly to androgenetic alopecia and nail problems). Hormonal Imbalances (especially telogen effluvium)
- Medical Issues (thyroid abnormalities, autoimmune diseases, and infections can impact hair and nail health.)
- Nutritional deficiencies, including iron, zinc, biotin, and vitamin B12, can cause hair loss and brittle nails.
- Certain treatments, including chemotherapy and blood thinners, may cause hair loss as a side effect.
- Emotional and physical stress can cause hair loss and worsen existing issues. • Lifestyle issues like smoking, excessive alcohol intake, and poor diet can harm hair and nail health.
- Harsh chemicals, sun exposure, and air pollution can damage hair and nails. [10]
To reduce these risks, maintain a balanced diet rich in vitamins and minerals. Avoid harsh chemical treatments and excessive heat styling for hair. Keep nails dry and clean, and avoid over trimming cuticles, which can cause infections. Treatment varies according to the illness, but may include topical medications, oral medications, light therapy for hair disorders, and antifungal therapies for nail problems. Regular visits to a dermatologist are essential, especially if symptoms continue.
Takeaway:
Hair and nail health is a critical component of general well-being, especially in seniors who are more likely to have dermatological concerns. OnSite Dermatology specializes in treating these issues directly in senior living communities. With a team of skilled dermatologists, OnSite Dermatology provides easy access to specialized care, assisting seniors in maintaining not only the health of their hair and nails, but also their confidence and quality of life. OnSite Dermatology provides on-site consultations and treatments, ensuring that elders receive the best dermatological care without having to go to clinics. This proactive approach not only addresses symptoms, but also aids in the early detection and management of potential health risks indicated by hair and nail changes. For more information or to schedule a consultation, fill in the form below or give us a call on (877) 345-5300.
References:
- Alopecia Areata: Symptoms, Causes, Treatment & Regrowth
- Androgenetic alopecia: MedlinePlus Genetics
- Telogen effluvium (hair shedding)
- Traction Alopecia: Prevention, Treatment and Causes
- Seborrheic dermatitis – Symptoms and causes – Mayo Clinic
- Fungal Nail Infections — DermNet
- Nail Psoriasis: What It Is, Causes, Nail Pitting, Treatment
- Onycholysis (Nail Separation): Symptoms, Causes & Treatment
- Paronychia (Nail Infection): What Is It, Symptoms, Causes and Treatment
- Nail Abnormalities: Symptoms, Causes, and Prevention
